How Much Is a Backpacking Permit in Yosemite?

By Anna Duncan

A backpacking permit in Yosemite is a requirement for anyone wanting to stay in the backcountry overnight. The fee for an individual permit is $5 plus $5 per person, per night.

Group permits cost $25 plus $5 per person, per night.

The Yosemite National Park requires an overnight permit for all backcountry camping trips within its boundaries. This includes campers and backpackers who are staying in designated areas along trails or in designated campsites. The park also requires that all campsites and trails be left clean and undamaged.

Each person applying for a permit must provide a valid form of identification such as a driver’s license or passport. Additionally, all members of the group must provide the same information, unless they are minors under the age of 18.

Permits can be obtained at any ranger station, visitor center or wilderness office located within Yosemite National Park. Permits can also be obtained online at www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/backcntry_feesandres.htm.

Permit Limits

The maximum number of people allowed on any one trip is 15, including children under the age of 18 who are accompanied by an adult.

Reservation System

Yosemite has implemented a reservation system for visitors wanting to stay overnight in the park from mid-March through mid-September each year due to high demand during these months.

Wilderness Camping

Backpackers are welcome to stay anywhere along their route as long as they have a valid permit and follow Leave No Trace principles, which includes packing out all trash and leaving no evidence that they were ever there.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a backpacking permit in Yosemite costs either $5 plus $5 per person, per night for an individual or $25 plus $5 per person, per night for groups up to 15 people. Permits can be obtained at ranger stations or wilderness offices located within the park or online at www.htm during specific times of year when reservations are needed due to high demand.